The Skills Funding Agency (SFA) subsequently issued it with a notice of concern and called for “fundamental changes” at the top of the college and within months of the result principal Paul Taylor, who had led the college for 16 years and experienced two previous poor inspections, was .
A monitoring visit from Ofsted in October then said there had been “reasonable progress” in all themes assessed. They were self-assessment and improvement planning, quality of teaching, learning and assessment, work place learning and science, maths and business, and strengthening governance.
And the latest full inspection resulted in grade threes throughout the main findings board. The college also got four grade twos for teaching, learning and assessment in business management, administration, visual arts and performing arts.
The report said: “Since the last inspection, the appointment of professionals with substantial skills and experience to the leadership team and to the board of governors has taken the college forward quickly.
“Senior leaders have thoroughly involved all staff, through effective communications, to help achieve the college’s strategic priorities and to use the new strategic plan. For example, regular college-wide briefings, meetings and newsletters are resulting in a high level of commitment among staff.”
The result has seen the SFA lift its notice of concern.
Mrs Galliers said: “The report recognises the new strategic priorities of the college in focussing firmly on the needs of Coventry and its residents.
“We have worked tirelessly to recover the college’s reputation following last year’s report and we are enormously grateful for the support we have received from external stakeholders including the Local Authority and the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership.
“Teaching and learning remains a singular focus for the college and for the governing body.
“It is encouraging to read that Ofsted now recognises a strong governing body which knows the college well.”
See feweek.co.uk tomorrow for an exclusive Q&A with Mr Logan.